Where to start

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Finally got the courage to ask for advice.

I'm about 360 pounds right now and I know I have to make better changes. I also know it has to start with me, but I am so confused as to where to start to make simple changes.

I have a gym membership at no cost to me but I am very intimidated when I go there. I'll admit just getting there is a challenge and all I have done at this point is use the treadmill as that's the most thing I'm comfortable with. I know I can use the circuit machines with ease but as I deal with anxiety it just scares me.

As far as food choices, I know I have to do better but having sensory challenges as a part of being autistic poses additional challenges as I am very limited to eating fruit and vegetables. I know I need to do better overall, but am just overwhelmed by it all.


Just looking for some hints and advice on where to start on a very basic level.

Well I'm not sure if this is good advice as I'm not sure of your situation and personal needs, but this is what I would suggest from general health knowledge:

My suggestion is to be consistent in taking care of:
1. Diet - avoid highly processed food and anything with a mix of sugar and fat (cookies, doughnuts, deep fried chicken, etc). Do you cook your own meals? That helps.
2. Exercise - you're doing well by going to the gym at all, it doesn't matter if you stick to one apparatus, it's all burning energy and building muscle.
3. Metabolic health - is there an underlying condition? Get regular health checks and take any prescribed medication.
4. Good sleep
5. Stress reduction, if needed - 4 and 5 are important so that you are in the best place mentally to make good decisions about your health.
6. Monthly weigh-in and waist measure - if you weigh yourself every month that may help keep you on track for the long haul. Also measure waist girth, because weight of fat loss can be obscured by extra muscle mass.

Hope it works out for you!